Prunus armeniaca Luizet - Apricot Tree

Apricot Luizet is a self-fertile and productive variety. This semi-late flowering variety, therefore resistant to cold, is particularly well adapted to the continental climate. Its large-sized fruits, about 5 cm (2in) in diameter, are ovoid and have a very pronounced, albeit narrow, furrow. Their yellow-orange skin, punctuated with purple-red, has a slight fuzz. The flesh, intense yellow, is firm and quite juicy, sweet and tangy, with a balanced fragrance. The fruits are delicious fresh and very suitable for pastries. Harvesting will take place at ripeness, in the last fortnight of July. This variety is not suitable for southern areas.

The apricot tree is native to Central and Eastern Asia. It has been cultivated in China since 3,000 BC. The apricot tree we cultivate (Prunus armeniaca) was introduced to the Mediterranean basin from Armenia, hence its name, at the beginning of the Christian era. Its introduction to France took place during the Renaissance. In 1838, the botanist abbot Gabriel Luizet created the Abricotier Luizet from a variety from Central Europe of the 'Meilleurs de Hongrie' group.

Due to its semi-late flowering, which protects it from late winter frosts, the Abricotier Luizet is adapted to colder regions. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). A sunny position, sheltered from winds and facing south, will nonetheless improve fruiting. This variety has an upright habit, indicating a slender and tall tree, with spaced foliage and branches that grow vertically. The leaves are dentate, heart-shaped, and have long petioles. It can reach a height of up to 6 m (20ft) with a diameter of 4 m (13ft). It starts producing at 3 years old and becomes fully mature at 7 years old. The flowering of the apricot tree occurs in March, before the leaves appear. The flowering is carried by the previous year's branches. The flower has 5 pink petals and purple sepals. It is fragrant but lasts only a short time. Fruit ripening occurs from mid-July for a fortnight. The Abricotier Luizet is self-fertile, so it does not require the presence of another apricot tree for pollination.

Apricots are consumed fresh, dried, or prepared: jams, pies, compotes, canned apricots, etc. They are also found in savoury dishes, such as rabbit with apricots and parsnips (an English recipe). Apricot juices are advantageously mixed with a touch of peach juice to balance the natural acidity of the apricot.